What We Know About Federal Programs/Grant Funding Under the Trump Administration

March 9th, 2017

“Unpresedented” seems to be the word most use to describe both the presidential campaign and the new administration – and no other word can better describe what we’re dealing with when it comes to federal and state grant programs in 2017. It’s a Brave New World. We’ve all heard the rumors about federal departments having their funding stripped away or — even more unnerving — being abolished altogether (see list below). It’s easy to get wrapped up in the whirlwind of fear and uncertainty, especially when everything is happening so fast and we’re all trying to make plans for the programs and projects that help those we serve. So, what should you expect?

One thing seems relatively certain: The Trump administration intends to strip down the federal government and turn over much of the responsibility to states (think “Skinny Budget,” complements of The Heritage Foundation). How, when and where the funds will come, along with specific mechanisms and time frames, TBD. Experts say more will be revealed after a new OMB Director is appointed, and after the budget is passed in April. However, don’t expect departments to be functioning with any consistency until summer or fall, as many have been (or will likely be) gutted.

The consensus seems to be that grantee organizations with current grant funding for their programs can expect to continue receiving funds as normal. There are still plenty of grants available to apply for but given all of the unknowns, it would be smart for organizations to apply for as many grants as possible right now before substantial amounts of grand funding possibly goes away. Be sure to sign up for our free Grant Siren and get notification when new grants that are a good fit for your organization are released.

If all of this is weighing heavy on your heart, don’t forget that our democracy is an intricate system of checks and balances — and very active constituents. It will take more than the wave of a president’s pen to bring all his intentions to fruition.

A positive strategy right now for all organizations that depend on grant funding, in addition to applying for the grants that are still available, is to get down to grassroots basics. Get local. Reach out to other organizations in your service area (and beyond) to strengthen partnerships for the days ahead (this is always a prudent practice and will serve you well). Also, be prepared to focus on state-level funding. It would be a good idea to reach out to your city, county and state legislators as well. Make appointments with them or their aides to familiarize them with your organization, if they’re not already.

It’s time to build more bridges, not walls. Resource Associates has been in the business of doing just that for over 20 years. Even in these uncertain times — ESPECIALLY in these uncertain times — it’s important to seek guidance from experts who are on the front line. Reach out to us today. We’ll help guide you and your organization through the uncertainty and improve your chances of winning the currently available grant funds.

Departments and Programs that could be affected by cuts or eliminated(source: Heritage Foundation)